Obama promises to keep America engaged in U.N. speech

Sept. 24 - U.S. President Barack Obama tells the United Nations General Assembly that America remains committed to staying engaged with the world. Nathan Frandino reports.

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President Barack Obama says the U.S. must remain engaged in the world -- despite widespread criticism by some of his counterparts at the United Nations.
(SOUNDBITE) (English) PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA, SAYING:
"The danger for the world is not an America that is too eager to immerse itself in the affairs of other countries (EDIT) The danger for the world is that the United States (EDIT) may disengage, creating a vaccuum of leadership that no other nation is ready to fill."
Obama's address to the U.N. General Assembly comes after a fierce debate in the U.S. that almost led to missile strikes in Syria over its chemical weapons.
(SOUNDBITE) (English) PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA, SAYING:
"When I stated my willingness to order a limited strike against the Assad regime in response to the brazen use of chemical weapons, I did not do so lightly."
In the wide-ranging speech, Obama also said he was encouraged on the diplomatic front regarding Iran's nuclear ambitions.
(SOUNDBITE) (English) PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA, SAYING:
"For while the status quo will only deepen Iran's isolation, Iran's genuine commitment to go down a different path will be good for the region and the world."
The White House left open the possibility that Obama and Iranian President Rouhani Hassan could meet - at least for a handshake on the U.N. sidelines.